Intersection a Long-Time Traffic Hazard

Just this summer, a group of area residents voiced their concerns and requested safety improvements to the Newport City Council, RI Department of Transportation, and state and national officials in an 18-page letter. While the intersection has been a long-time traffic safety concern, residents’ uneasiness escalated when the RIDOT Pell Bridge ramp realignment project resulted in a big influx of commercial and construction vehicles being re-routed through the area. Considered part of Route 138, a larger state highway, Admiral Kalbus Road is also a residential area. Hillside Avenue is also a residential area and a main route to and from Newport’s Pell Elementary School which is of great concern to both parents and neighbors who frequently observe motorists driving with a disregard for speed limits and traffic signals.

Over time the city has made improvements such as installing signage on Hillside Avenue and trying to use speed cameras. In fact, the city was awarded a $230,000 federal grant in 2022 for traffic safety measures on Hillside Drive following a traffic study conducted the prior year which showed continued speeding and pedestrian safety issues. In late 2022, cameras were used to catch 67 vehicles speeding through the intersection. The issue of the speed camera’s contract, however, was removed from the city council’s summer agenda leaving residents frustrated and worried.

City Urged to Make Changes

After the fatal bike accident, locals are putting pressure on Newport officials to redirect the influx of commercial vehicles away from the residential and school area and instead toward a new roundabout in the city and urging the city to install the speed cameras. Making improvements may prove a bit more complex with some portions of the roads in question being managed by the State of Rhode Island DOT while other portions belong to the city. In addition to these changes, local groups such as Bike Newport are advocating for long-term measures such as a designated bike path to improve safety for those biking, walking, and driving,

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney in Newport, RI

For all Rhode Island drivers, especially in residential and school zones, a reminder that motorists are urged to slow down, heed caution, and adhere to the posted speed limits and traffic signals to avoid another tragic, unavoidable, traffic fatality. If you or a loved one have been hurt in a car accident, bike accident, or pedestrian accident in Newport, Rhode Island, or Massachusetts, it’s critical to get medical attention right away. Then, call Attorney David Tapalian, an experienced personal injury lawyer in RI and MA, to discuss your eligibility to file a personal injury claim to seek damages against the person responsible for your harm. To discuss your accident with a RI attorney, call Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000, or contact us online to book your free consultation.

RI Pedestrian Deaths

In 2020, Rhode Island experienced 17 pedestrian fatalities, according to the most recent data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Based on the number of total traffic fatalities that year, 67 traffic accident-related deaths, pedestrians accounted for 25.4% of the total traffic fatalities in Rhode Island. Clearly, the safety of those on foot is a concern.

Across the United States, the NHTSA provides the following data for the year 2020:

• Not surprisingly, over ¾ of pedestrian fatalities occur in the dark, a majority taking place between the hours of 6pm-8:59pm.
• Alcohol use (driver, pedestrian, or both) is a contributing factor in almost half of all pedestrian deaths.
• More pedestrians are killed in urban areas (82%), than rural areas (18%).
• Only 15% of pedestrian traffic fatalities take place at intersections.

Are Crosswalks a Safe Option?

Pedestrians are urged to always use a designated crosswalk when attempting to cross a street. Of course, there is no guarantee of safety but there is definitely a benefit. According to Rhode Island General Law 31.18.3, the driver of a vehicle must yield the right of way and allow a pedestrian within a crosswalk, or approaching closely, to safely cross. Despite the law, not all drivers heed it and most of us have seen dangerous near-collisions between cars and people crossing the street. Reckless drivers may be distracted by a text or phone call, while others carelessly choose to ignore the requirement and plow right through a crosswalk without even attempting to look for people on foot. As a Providence personal injury attorney, David Tapalian handles all types of auto accidents and, no differently than other types of car crashes, driver distractions are a huge contributing factor in pedestrian injuries, especially cell phone use.

Although pedestrian accidents are frequently the fault of a reckless motor vehicle operator, this is not always the case. The same RI General Law also states “… no pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.” Pedestrians need to take accountability and ensure they are taking safety measures as well. It’s essential that pedestrians pause and check, and re-check, for approaching vehicles prior to crossing. This is particularly critical if there are hindrances such as parked cars that may block the view of a driver. By no means should a pedestrian be looking down at their phone, or using headphones or earbuds, that limit their senses. For instance, a motor vehicle operator may be temporarily blinded by the glare of the sun and not see they are approaching a crosswalk. If this is compounded by a person on foot recklessly crossing while looking down at their phone and not paying attention to their surroundings, it could result in a deadly, and completely avoidable, collision between the car and the pedestrian.

Contact a Rhode Island Personal Injury Lawyer After a Pedestrian Injury

If you are a pedestrian who was hit by a car and injured, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention regardless of how grave, or minor, your injuries seem at the time. If the driver who hurt you is found to be at fault, they may be held responsible for your damages including medical bills, lost wages from work, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and more. As soon as possible, contact an experienced injury attorney in Providence who can help you sort through the confusion and determine if you are eligible to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation. Attorney David Tapalian has helped hundreds of clients throughout RI and MA receive maximum compensation for their injuries. There is no fee to discuss your claim and our personal injury firm doesn’t get paid until you receive money for your losses. Call Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000 to schedule your free consultation.

Considering that SUVs make up almost 50% of motor vehicle sales in the U.S. each year and are projected to continually rise, and sedans make up less than a quarter of sales, the study findings are daunting. The primary difference between getting hit by a smaller vehicle versus a sports utility vehicle occurs when a collision takes place at an intermediate speed. For example:

• When traveling at 40 miles per hour:
  • A car hitting a pedestrian will result in death 46% of the time.
  • An SUV traveling at the same speed will kill a pedestrian almost 100% of the time.

Based on the IIHS findings, when the vehicle traveled at lower or higher speeds, there was less of a difference between the danger of SUV’s and cars. One reason SUV crashes are riskier to pedestrians is because of the traditional SUV’s more “boxy” shape in front. The resulting injuries caused by the larger vehicle’s bumper, headlights, and grill are more damaging because they are higher off the ground and these parts of the vehicle typically hit a person’s chest or pelvis as opposed to just their lower extremities. This style of vehicle is also more likely to throw a person forward than a smaller, differently designed car is.

What Vehicle Manufacturers Are Doing

Over the years, a number of auto manufacturers have revamped the designs of their sports utility vehicles to be more car-like and feature a more sloped front bumper. Although other manufacturers began lowering bumpers and other heavy parts, the rate of accidents has not significantly decreased because the location of the parts is not as damaging as the actual shape of the front of the car. The IIHS says that manufacturers need to do more to combat these design issues that have resulted in pedestrian injuries and deaths, especially with the popularity of sports utility vehicles on the road.

How to Protect Yourself from a Rhode Island Pedestrian Accident

As the driver of any type of vehicle, we all have a responsibility to remain free of distractions and stay strictly focused on the road. As a pedestrian, there are also ways to minimize the risk of being hit by an SUV or other type of vehicle. Firstly, when available, always utilize designated crosswalks or walk on sidewalks, and heed the Rhode Island traffic signals around you. Make sure you are focused on your surroundings, look away from your phone or other distractions, and look both ways before darting out into the street. You want to also be facing the line of traffic when you are walking along the side of a road. You will see cars coming at you, ideally with enough time to move away, as opposed to unseen vehicles potentially injuring you from behind. Wearing bright colored clothing and reflective gear will also make you more visible to motorists.

Attorney Tapalian Can Get You Compensation After a Motor Vehicle and Pedestrian Accident

If you have been hit by a car, truck, or SUV, in a Rhode Island auto accident, seek legal advice from an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. After any type of injury, it’s critical to seek immediate medical care, then contact a highly respected and top-rated personal injury law firm like Tapalian Law. When an automobile strikes an innocent pedestrian, the driver of the vehicle who caused the collision may be held responsible for the injuries and damages they caused. If the at-fault driver is found negligent, you may be eligible for money for your injuries including medical bills, hospital costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a car accident results in death, certain family members of the victim may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim for compensation if the driver was found to be acting carelessly. Attorney David Tapalian has over 20 years of experience helping victims of personal injury in car accidents throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida. With a main office located in Providence with easily accessible parking, and offices in Warwick, Seekonk, and Fort Lauderdale, we are ready to help you right away. Call Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000, or contact us online to set up your free consultation.

Car Accident Fatalities So Far This Year

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation reported 45 motor vehicle or motorcycle accident fatalities as of Wednesday, October 29th. Only days after the announcement, three more people were killed in auto crashes on Route 95 on Sunday. In comparison, there were 49 motor vehicle fatalities total in RI last year. In addition, over 200 people have been injured in car accidents so far this year.

Pedestrian accidents have also increased and 16 pedestrians have died in Rhode Island so far this year, compared to 8 pedestrian fatalities in the state in 2019. Specifically, with less drivers on the road, these numbers are disturbing, not to mention puzzling. State officials are attributing the increase in crashes and fatalities to risky driving behavior, another possible side effect of the Coronavirus pandemic. As a Rhode Island Car Accident Attorney, David Tapalian sees a great majority of car crashes and pedestrian accidents caused by negligent drivers including driving under the influence, speeding, and cell phone use.

Pandemic Stress Contributes

Although traffic volume has declined, stress levels remain high for innumerable people throughout the country, largely in part related to the pandemic. To deal with the stress, some are using alcohol and drugs as a destructive coping mechanism. When an intoxicated driver gets behind the wheel, the end result is all to often a serious, or deadly, car accident.

Drivers are also speeding more, possibly due to the temptation of more open roads and less cars and trucks with which to contend. The higher the speed of a vehicle, the lower the chance of a person surviving a crash if hit by the speeding vehicle. Often times, a combination of risky driving behaviors are at fault, for instance, the recent crash on Route 95 that killed three people on November 1^st has been attributed to excessive speed and alcohol.

Holiday Season Typically Sees a Rise in Accidents

As the holiday season approaches, it’s an unfortunate reality that the holidays usually bring with them an increase in motor vehicle accidents. As a Rhode Island Car Accident Lawyer, David Tapalian is familiar with seeing an influx of clients injured in car accidents throughout the holidays, frequently due to a drunk driver. These types of tragic accidents are completely preventable. This holiday season will be atypical due to the pandemic and therefore it will be even more important to be diligent about road safety whether you are traveling a long distance or staying local. Police in Rhode Island will increase patrols to be on the lookout for impaired drivers and offer the reminders to drivers to always wear a seat belt, motorcycle riders to always wear a safety helmet, don’t drink and drive, and don’t speed. With less daylight this time of year, there are a number of safety precautions both drivers and pedestrians can take to help ensure their safety.

Contact Tapalian Law for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, it’s important to contact an experienced car accident attorney to protect your legal rights. Attorney David Tapalian has helped hundreds of car accident victims in RI and MA seek compensation after they have been hurt by a negligent driver. You may be eligible for compensation for your medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, physical therapy, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, and more. Contact the experienced personal injury team at Tapalian Law at our offices in Providence, RI, Warwick, RI, and Seekonk, MA, at 401-552-5000 for a free, no obligations review of your car accident, motorcycle accident, slip and fall, or workers compensation claim. You can also reach us with our easy, online contact form.

Be Alert as a Pedestrian

Over 6,000 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. in 2018. This is the highest number in more than 20 years, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). While this recent study may be small and need more in-depth research, the issue of distracted walking and distracted driving is big. While innovations in safety technology have increased the survivability of victims in automobile crashes, pedestrians still remain susceptible to critical, or fatal, injuries when hit by a vehicle.

In a city like Providence, walking is convenient, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly. It’s also a good form of exercise. Clearly, the solution isn’t to tell pedestrians to stay off the street. Yet, it does make sense for those on foot to simply be more aware of their surroundings, instead of looking down at a smartphone. A pedestrian can’t change the unsafe behavior of negligent motorists like, drunk driving, speeding, and aggressive driving, all of which contribute greatly to pedestrian accidents that we see as personal injury attorneys in Rhode Island. In no way is a pedestrian at fault for a driver’s bad behavior. A pedestrian can be, however, aware and perhaps in some cases, more likely to anticipate an impending crash. But if the person is looking down to send a text, they may not be alert to the speeding car that just ran through a red light and is fast approaching the crosswalk they are entering.

Study Findings

The study, by researchers at the University of Calgary, analyzed the cause behind hundreds of pedestrian incidents. Throughout the study, texting while walking was associated with a higher rate of mishaps, like a failure to look left and right when crossing the road, and near-misses. Those listening to music did not seem to be affected while those talking on a cell phone had a small risk.

What Has Contributed to A Rise in Pedestrian Accidents?

There are a number of factors that affect the rate of pedestrian accidents and deaths each year and the latest research points to smartphones as a significant contributor. Cellphone distractions in these scenarios can be attributed to both the motorist driving the vehicle who hits the pedestrian, as well as the pedestrian who is distracted by looking at their cell phone. An accident could arise as a result of the driver, the pedestrian, or a combination of both. For example, the driver of a car may be using a phone to send a text while driving and collide with a pedestrian who is walking across the street looking down while texting a friend. In this situation, both the motorist and the pedestrian may share fault for the crash. Rhode Island Personal Injury Attorney David Tapalian knows a person on foot against a heavy SUV is a mis-matched fight, and the pedestrian is likely to be the one to suffer the brunt of the impact and suffer serious, possibly life-threatening, injuries.

In addition to technology use, there are other influences that affect pedestrian accidents each year including weather conditions, population growth, and traffic infrastructure. Growth in the popularity of larger sport utility vehicles (SUV) over the years has been linked to pedestrian fatalities, however, while the number of SUV’s associated with pedestrian fatalities has increased due to their prevalence on the road, it is cars, not SUV’s, that are still involved in the largest percentage of these types of crashes.

Ways to Address the Issue

There is no quick solution to this important safety concern, and it must be addressed in a number of ways including education, enforcement, and infrastructure.

Education- Knowledge is power, it’s said. Educate both pedestrians and drivers on the serious dangers of texting and walking and texting and driving. Its everyone’s problem. A particular focus on new teen drivers who lack the experience and maturity of a more skilled driver and who have grown up with smartphones may be beneficial.

Enforcement- Local and state police continue to monitor, and penalize, for negligent driving behaviors like distracted driving, operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, and road rage. By now, everyone knows it’s illegal to text or use a hand-held device while driving in RI and MA. Still, as a Rhode Island personal injury lawyer, David Tapalian helps car accident victims everyday who are hurt in crashes caused by a distracted driver.

Infrastructure- Improve roads and traffic areas that are lacking, i.e. blind corners with poor visibility, addition of clearly marked crosswalks, and more sidewalks. This is a long-term process across years, decades in some instances, and depends on available funding. Much has been improved and continues to be, in the way of vehicle safety technology such as blind spot and pedestrian sensors.

If You’ve Been Hurt, Contact Tapalian Law in Providence, RI

If you, or someone you love, has been injured in a car accident or hurt by a distracted driver, its important to protect your legal rights. Seek immediate medical attention and then contact Injury Attorney David Tapalian for a free legal consultation. David and his skilled personal injury team will fight to get you the compensation you deserve after you’ve been hurt in an accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts. With a main office in Providence and offices in Warwick RI and Seekonk MA, we are conveniently located to all local cities and towns. If you are too hurt to come to us, we will come to you in the hospital or at your home. We offer a free, no-obligation, consultation and are ready to begin helping you right away. Call Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000, or reach us online.

As the availability of electric scooter rental programs increased, rentals nearly doubled from 2017 to 2018. Emergency room physicians across the U.S. saw a corresponding uptick in the number of patients suffering injuries as the result of a scooter accident, and scooter injuries jumped an alarming 82%. This sharp increase in e-scooter trauma was reported in a recent study by the University of California, San Francisco. Unlike car accidents, data on scooter injuries is still in its relative infancy. However, other studies have reported similar, striking results, as shown in our Rhode Island Accident Lawyer Blog.

An easy, low-cost transportation option, e-scooter rentals can certainly be a useful tool to get around the city. However, as Providence personal injury lawyers we can’t stress enough how imperative it is that operators, especially novice users who are particularly prone to getting hurt, wear a safety helmet and take the time to familiarize themselves with the operation of the vehicle and its rules for use to prevent injury. Providence’s E-Scooter Share Program, as well as the individual rental company websites, provides information on proper use.

Injuries from Scooter Accidents

Injuries from scooter accidents run the gamut from minor cuts and bruises to brain injury, including fatalities. In particular, the high rate of head injury to electric scooter users is a huge concern. A serious head injury can dramatically alter a person’s life leaving them unable to complete routine, daily tasks on their own without help. The study reports that 1/3 of e-scooter injury patients had head trauma, double the rate of bicyclists. The simple step of putting on a helmet can be life-saving. As Providence personal injury lawyers, we know how detrimental, and life-altering, a serious head injury can be to a victim and strongly urge scooter riders and bicyclists to always wear a safety helmet.

Aside from head injuries, common e-scooter injuries include fractures (27%), contusions/abrasions (23%), and lacerations (14%). Typical injury locations are the head, wrist, elbow, and hip.

Unsuspecting pedestrians are also victims of scooter accidents when an inexperienced rider crashes into the person or a scooter is left carelessly on the sidewalk causing a tripping hazard. The Providence E-Scooter Share Program states “when you finish your ride, make sure you park your e-scooter in a location that does not impede a pedestrian walkway”. It also suggests e-scooters be parked upright near the curb of sidewalks, leaving enough space for pedestrians to get by safely.

The Danger of E-Scooter Rentals

Lack of experience is the chief reason so many e-scooter riders are getting hurt. The vehicles are a relatively new transportation alternative and users and pedestrians alike are still getting used to how they operate and the rules of the road. Novice scooter riders who don’t take the time to familiarize themselves with the operation and safety rules set out by the rental companies and the City of Providence can be a great risk to themselves and others on the road, including motor vehicle drivers and pedestrians. Providence Personal Injury Attorney David Tapalian has seen a number of scooter collisions caused by operators driving erratically, swerving in and out between pedestrians or vehicles, and not obeying traffic rules.

Riders must obey traffic laws and follow the rules of the roads such as stopping at traffic lights and stop signs. Though allowed to operate on sidewalks or in the road, riders must go slow and yield to pedestrians on the sidewalk or on a blocked-of street. Just like a reckless motor vehicle driver, a scooter operator speeding, using alcohol or drugs, using a cell phone, and/or acting carelessly, and illegally, is at great risk for injury and accidents.

Road conditions like potholes and uneven pavement, as well as adverse weather, can also contribute to scooter accidents. E-scooters should not be used in snow or icy conditions.

Contact Tapalian Law for Your Scooter Injury

If you’ve been injured in an accident with an electric scooter, whether as the operator, a pedestrian, or a motor vehicle driver, contact an experienced personal injury attorney in Providence RI at Tapalian Law. Attorney David Tapalian has been helping injured people in Rhode Island and Massachusetts for over 20 years, recover compensation after a car accident, truck accident, bike accident, slip and fall, or other type of personal injury, caused by the fault of another. We offer a free, no obligation, consultation where we will discuss the details of your injury claim, obtain relevant medical history and police reports, and determine the best course of action for your claim. Our main office is located at 350 South Main St, in Providence, RI, with easy, free parking, as well as offices in Warwick, RI, and Seekonk, MA. If you are too hurt to come to us, our skilled personal injury team will come to you at your convenience. Call Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000, or set up your free consultation with our online form.

Causes of the Rise in Pedestrian Accidents

One of the main sources of pedestrian injuries and accidents in Rhode Island, and the entire country, is distracted driving. Distracted driving, commonly taking the form of texting and overall smartphone use while operating a vehicle, might also include the distractions of other passengers in the car, loud music, eating or drinking. A rise in population growth, specifically in cities, is another reason for the uptick in pedestrian injuries and accidents. Cities like Providence RI are a hotbed for pedestrian activity. With multiple colleges and universities throughout the city, on any given day thousands of people are walking the streets. What makes pedestrians more likely to be hurt in a car accident in Providence, is that many of the thousands of college students are new to the city and therefore not familiar with the city’s roads and infrastructure. As personal injury lawyers in Providence RI, at Tapalian Law we have seen a number of clients hurt in car accidents caused by out of state drivers. Inexperienced pedestrians and inexperienced drivers are a dangerous mix. Other factors attributed to the rise in pedestrian fatalities include weather conditions, fuel costs, and the upsurge of SUV’s on the roads.

Should Pedestrians Share Some of the Blame?

When a person is hit by a car, typically people point to the driver of the car or SUV as the cause of the auto accident. When it comes to pedestrian accidents, should pedestrians bear some blame? That depends. Time and again while navigating the streets of Providence, people young and old are looking down at their smart phones while walking. Some pedestrians are not only looking at their smart phones while walking, but even have headphones on as well. Everyone today is distracted for any number of reasons but both pedestrians and motor vehicle operators need to take responsibility. The majority of car accidents involving pedestrians take place on local roads and since people feel comfortable with their familiar surroundings, they may be less aware and less likely to pay attention. The combination of distracted driving and distracted walking are a big cause of pedestrian and car collisions throughout the state of Rhode Island.

Reducing Pedestrian Deaths

Many states, including Rhode Island and Massachusetts, have laws governing cell phone use and/or texting while driving. Despite the laws, as Rhode Island personal injury attorneys we see people hurt every day in auto accidents caused by texting and driving. A recent case in NJ relied on texting while driving in order to establish recklessness when a 50-year old woman was convicted of second-degree vehicular homicide due in part by evidence of texting while driving. This woman could face up to 10 years in prison in her texting while driving fatality conviction. Will harsh sentences and stronger laws alter human behavior? In addition to enforcement approaches, the GHSA recommends various strategies to combat pedestrians getting killed by automobiles, including infrastructure/engineering changes, education, and public outreach.

Were You Injured in a Car Accident in RI?

If you were injured due to a car accident as a pedestrian, or as the driver or occupant of another vehicle, it is essential you have competent legal representation. You may be entitled to significant compensatory damages for your resulting injuries. As a personal injury attorney in Providence, Rhode Island, David Tapalian’s 20 years of experience can be put to work for you. Compensatory damages that a personal injury lawyer can obtain for you may include, but are not limited to:

• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• lost income
• medical expenses
• pain-and-suffering
• disability
• future lost earning potential
• future impairment

For a free consultation, contact the RI personal injury team at Tapalian Law. Attorney David Tapalian will personally meet with you to discuss the details of your injuries, gather necessary information including police reports and medical records, and recommend the best plan of action to move forward. Call Tapalian Law’s Providence office today at 401-552-5000, or reach us online with our contact form.

When Bikes & Cars Collide

When a bicycle and motor vehicle collide, as expected it’s the person on the bike who bears the brunt of the impact and suffers serious injuries, which are sometimes fatal. Across the U.S., 783 cyclists were killed in traffic accidents in 2017. Despite what many Rhode Islanders feel is a step in the wrong direction with the removal of the Eaton Street bike lane, many cities including Providence are developing plans to make bicycle and pedestrian travel safer in urban areas. Bicycle traffic will increase with these safety initiatives while drivers of cars are more distracted than ever; this makes it more important than ever to have access to an experienced Providence bicycle accident attorney if you are injured. Municipalities across Rhode Island are encouraging more bicycle traffic and designated bike lanes are becoming clearly marked throughout the state making it apparent that bicycles are welcome. Cities and towns will need to do more to make bicycling safer for everyone throughout Rhode Island.

Traffic Light Adjustments Can Reduce Bicyclist Injuries

Some cities are rearranging the way traffic lights work to assist with bicyclist safety. By adjusting traffic lights at intersections, some municipalities are able to offer what is called a green wave to bicyclists. For example, in Brooklyn, NY, where 16 bicyclists have been killed in traffic accidents just this year, the city is experimenting with adjusting traffic lights at intersections allowing cyclists to catch a string of green lights which allows them to move quicker, but also more safely. Yet all is not perfect with the green wave. Many drivers complain it creates more traffic because the average speed of an automobile is reduced in areas where the re-calibration of traffic lights has been adjusted to the benefit of a bicyclist. Rhode Island is very serious about planning for mobility of bicycles and their safety and as bike accident lawyers in RI, Tapalian Law feels the 2018 Bicycle Mobility plan is evidence of the commitment that the state has made to ensure that biking is not only convenient, but safe.

Bicycle Safety Is on You

As a casual cyclist with family, and as an injury attorney, I can’t help but wonder why bicyclists are not more careful. A cyclist certainly cannot control what a driver does with their vehicle, but they can control their own safety. As a personal injury law firm, at Tapalian Law we see horrific injuries to bike riders in Rhode Island. Some of the worst injuries being when an unaware attendant of a parked car opens the driver’s side door in the path of a bicyclist, often referred to as a “dooring”. One way car drivers can prevent a dangerous dooring accident is by practicing the “Dutch Reach”.

Anything that limits the senses of sight and sound should be restricted while riding a bike. As a bike accident attorney in Rhode Island, I am not a fan of air pods or other types of headphones while riding a bike. Ears are one of our most significant senses for safety, whether driving a car or bike, and anything that restricts hearing can make a person more likely to suffer significant injury in a collision. As a person on a bike, use the appropriate lane of travel when navigating the busy, city streets of Providence. Too often cyclists can be seen flying down the road very close to parked cars and traveling much too quickly. Bicyclists should travel in the appropriate lane and maintain a controlled speed and, just like the driver of a car, those on bikes must ride defensively. It is always smart to wear fluorescent or bright colored clothing to be more visible to cars. If riding a bike at dawn, dusk, or at night, safety lights are extremely important as are reflective stickers and/or clothing. Unfortunately, as a bicycle accident lawyer I see many injuries due to bike crashes throughout Rhode Island that could have easily been prevented by being more aware and following simple safety rules.

Helmets Are a Must!

Perhaps most importantly, wearing a proper fitting bicycle helmet is a no-brainer to prevent or reduce injury from a potential bicycle accident. Helmets are required by law of any cyclist ages 15 and younger. We are happy to report that helmet use is up significantly by adults. Even if you’re going for a short ride, wear the helmet! At Tapalian Law, we have encountered a number of bicycle accidents with serious injuries that very easily could have resulted in death, had the cyclist not worn a helmet.

Contact a Bike Accident Lawyer if You Suffer a Bicycle Injury

If you suffer any type of injury in a bike accident, the first, and most important, thing to do is seek medical attention and/or call 911. Once you have sought proper medical treatment and are stabilized, you can then think more critically about your legal rights. If you are safely able, take photographs of the accident scene. If the accident was the fault of someone else, obtain their driver’s license information. If you were struck by a vehicle, take pictures of the license plate and the vehicle make and model. Photos can be extremely helpful and valuable when it comes to proving liability in your potential injury claim. Next, you must speak to a well-qualified bicycle accident attorney in Rhode Island. At Tapalian Law, our Providence personal injury firm has the experience to represent you for bodily harm and property damage you might have suffered due to a cycling accident in Providence or throughout RI or MA. We offer a free consultation to discuss your claim and can assist in accident reconstruction if necessary, to prove that the vehicle driver was at fault for your injuries. We also have access to a wide array of medical professionals that we can refer you to for the best in medical care. Time is the real enemy in a bicycle accident injury case so don’t delay. For a free consultation, contact an injury lawyer today at 401-552-5000, or use our online contact form.

With all of the cutting-edge safety technologies available, some critics still think not enough is being done to keep drivers and pedestrians safe from car accidents. The goal should be “fewer, not smarter, cars”, reports opinion writer Allison Arieff in a recent New York Times article, because despite all of the latest cutting-edge features available in today’s new vehicles, far too many fatal car accidents and serious injuries are still happening.

Increase in Pedestrian Deaths

Despite over $80 billion spent on “smart”, connected, and autonomous vehicles, over 6,000 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. in 2018 alone. Pedestrians accounted for over 25% of Rhode Island traffic fatalities in 2017. Some say safety measures, like radio-frequency tags that emit a signal that can be detected by cars, should be taken by pedestrians and bicyclists. Is this only putting the onus on pedestrians to keep away from cars, and not the other way around? As a RI personal injury lawyer, Attorney David Tapalian knows that safety goes both ways and the responsibility must be shared by both drivers and pedestrians. Not only do drivers need to do their part by staying focused and aware, but pedestrians should also take every measure they can to be more visible to drivers such as wearing bright or reflective clothing, and following traffic rules such as using crosswalks.

Why is New Vehicle Technology Not Making Driving Safer?

Over 3,000 people were killed in car crashes in 2017 caused by distracted driving. The majority of driver distractions are caused by cell phone use, texting and driving, and other technology. Ironically, in-vehicle technology meant to improve safety can be a huge distraction to motor vehicle operators. Bigger, and more complex, dashboards compete for driver’s attention, taking it away from the road. The popularity of bigger vehicles, specifically sports utility vehicles, has led to a huge increase in single-vehicle pedestrian deaths involving SUV’s, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Due to an SUV having a higher front end than the average car, it is twice as likely than a car is to kill a walker, runner, bicyclist, or child.

What Are Some Solutions?

There is no quick or easy solution to reduce the number of deadly car accidents. However, Ms. Arieff offers up some potential solutions, first of which is that we all drive less. Not only will this lessen environmental pollution, but it will also lessen the number of auto accident fatalities and injuries. Other ideas she proffers are reducing speed limits, eradicating right turns on red, and adding protected bicycle lanes. As a RI personal injury attorney, David Tapalian always urges drivers to take the simple step to put down their phone and avoid unnecessary technology while driving to avoid a senseless accident.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposal in 2018 called the Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule. Its focus is to reduce the “national automobile fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards”, make newer, safer cars more affordable, and ultimately reduce car accident related injuries and save up to 1,000 lives annually. Just last month, the first steps were taken towards finalizing the proposal.

Contact Tapalian Law if You Have Been Injured in a Rhode Island Car Accident

Although in many cases, vehicle technology is a useful tool to prevent car accident injuries and fatalities, in some cases it may worsen the distraction to drivers. Safety technology is never a substitute for an attentive, focused driver or following safe driving practices and should not be relied on as such. If you have been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, seek the advice of experienced RI & MA Personal Injury Attorney David Tapalian and his skilled legal staff at Tapalian Law. With offices in Providence, RI, Warwick, RI, and Seekonk, MA, we are easily accessible. For a free consultation of your car accident or personal injury case, contact our Providence office today at 401-552-5000 or complete our online form and we will contact you right away to discuss the details of your personal injury or auto accident case.

What Prompted the Investigation into E-Scooter Injuries?

A considerable rise in emergency room visits for users and pedestrians prompted Austin, Texas city leaders to request an investigation by the CDC into scooter-related crashes and injuries. Seeking alternative modes of transportation in the big city, especially emission-free transportation, Austin residents took to the streets when the e-scooters arrived. Following this, emergency rooms in the area began to notice a large number of visits from electric scooter drivers with broken bones and head injuries. The ER visits included injuries both minor and major, such as a University of Texas student, a star baseball shortstop, that missed his season after he hit a pothole riding an electric scooter tearing his Achilles tendon and requiring surgery. In January 2019, Austin experienced its first scooter related death when a 21-year-old University of Texas student died a day after suffering critical injuries after his electric scooter collided with a car.

High Rate of Injury Among First-Time Electric Scooter Users

The CDC report found an especially high rate of injury among new e-scooter riders, specifically one in three injured riders were hurt on their first trip. Almost half of the hurt riders had head injuries, only one of them was wearing a helmet. As Providence personal injury attorneys, Tapalian Law urges all electric scooter and bicycle riders to wear a helmet to reduce the risk of head injury or brain injury. The most common injuries among scooter riders were broken bones, especially arms, wrists, and legs.

The study, performed among 190 e-scooter riders injured between September and November 2018, claims its findings may be highly underestimated as it only interviewed injured scooter riders who visited a local emergency room. It did not include injured riders who visited a doctor’s office, urgent care facility, or chose not to seek any medical treatment. Not only are scooter operators getting hurt, but pedestrians are getting injured by moving scooters or tripping over scooters left carelessly on the sidewalk. Though the study was confined to emergency room visits in Austin, it led researchers to conclude that more training is needed for e-scooter riders.

Why Are E-Scooters Dangerous?

The main reason e-scooter operators are getting injured so often is inexperience. Lack of experience in novice users, and not following safety rules set out by the scooter companies, creates a great safety risk to both users as well as pedestrians and other cars and trucks on the road. Just like a motor vehicle driver, driving aggressively, speeding, using a cell phone, and driving intoxicated all increase the risk of injury to an electric scooter user. It is extremely risky to operate a scooter without a proper helmet and doing so greatly increases the risk of brain or head injury if a driver is involved in a collision. Poor road conditions like potholes, can contribute to scooter accidents as can adverse weather conditions. Cars, trucks, and SUV’s also pose a risk to e-scooters on the road. Getting hit by a car or side-swiped by a truck, whether accidentally or with negligence, is significantly more dangerous to those riders not wearing a helmet. Pedestrian injuries include tripping over scooters parked or left carelessly on the street and getting hit by moving e-scooters.

What is Being Done to Make Electric Scooters Safer?

As personal injury attorneys in Providence, we are interested to know what the electric scooter companies are doing to increase the safety of their users in Rhode Island and beyond. Providence scooter companies Bird and Lime, both part of the city’s E-Scooter Share Pilot Program, have expressed their commitment to rider and community safety. Companies are doing a variety of things to make operating their e-scooters safer including redesigning features like larger wheels to better handle poorly maintained streets, re-positioning batteries to lower the center of gravity to reduce the risk of flipping forward, and distributing free helmets and/or including a helmet with a sanitary liner on the scooter that can be detached upon rental. Many are also adding additional safety instructions to the company apps to teach users how to safely operate a scooter.

Contact Tapalian Law If You Have Been Injured

If you have been hurt in a scooter accident, hit by a car or truck while riding a scooter, are a pedestrian who has been injured by a careless scooter rider, or received a scooter injury from tripping over an e-scooter left on the sidewalk, seek the advice of a Providence personal injury lawyer at Tapalian Law. Our experienced attorneys have been helping victims of personal injury in Rhode Island and Massachusetts for over 20 years. We focus on helping those hurt in accidents, including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip and falls, or work-related accidents, get rightful compensation for their suffering. We offer a free consultation of your personal injury or car accident case and will advise you of the options available to you. With offices in Providence, Warwick, and Seekonk, MA, let us begin helping you today. Call us at 401-552-5000, or contact Injury Attorney David Tapalian online.

At the time of a “dooring” bicycle crash, you may feel shock as well as a rush of adrenaline and injuries may not be instantly visible. You might feel bumped or bruised, but are able to get up and walk away. It is imperative to seek immediate medical attention, no matter how you feel. Inner injuries, like internal bleeding, can go undetected and without proper medical treatment can turn fatal. Bicyclists can suffer from traumatic brain injuries, especially if not wearing a proper safety helmet. Broken bones, lacerations, chipped teeth, serious bruising, road rash, and spinal cord injuries can all happen during a bike accident. If a person on a bicycle gets hits by a door, the impact might throw them into oncoming traffic causing them to get hit by a passing vehicle. Cyclists may also see a car door opening upon approach and swerve into moving traffic to avoid getting hit by the door. In 2016, a Cambridge, Massachusetts bicyclist died when a motorist opened their car door, causing the woman to veer into traffic where she was struck and killed by a truck. In a recent Rhode Island Accident Lawyer Blog, Tapalian Law explained the “Dutch Reach”, a habit that motorists can adapt when exiting a vehicle to prevent and avoid “dooring” accidents.

Steps to Follow After a “Dooring” Bicycle Accident

• Call 911 to seek police assistance and medical help.
• Have the driver of the vehicle involved, and any witnesses, stay at the scene of the accident. Obtain the driver’s license and insurance information, vehicle make, model, and license plate number. If the driver flees the accident scene, try to get the license plate number and description of the vehicle and ask witnesses for the same.
• File an incident report with the police including statements from witnesses.
• Seek immediate medical attention by visiting the Emergency Room, local walk-in clinic, or your doctor, even if you don’t feel hurt.
• Contact an experienced bicycle accident injury attorney like David Tapalian. The RI personal injury lawyers at Tapalian Law will instruct you step by step how to proceed following your Providence accident.

Who is Liable for Car Door Related Accidents in Rhode Island?

Motorists have a responsibility to safely operate a vehicle, including opening the door only when it can be done without harm. In Rhode Island, commonly the driver or passenger who opened the door negligently is solely responsible for a car door related incident, or “dooring”. Less commonly, the bicyclist may share blame for the collision if it can be shown they were not adhering to traffic laws, or were otherwise acting recklessly. Personal injury lawyer David Tapalian is well versed in the legalities surrounding bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and car crashes. Tapalian Law will review the specifics of your accident case to determine if the driver who hit you can likely be held liable for your injuries. Although 40 states have laws relating to opening car doors, only four states have specific language referring to bicyclists and pedestrians. These states are Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Washington D.C. Rhode Island Law Pertaining to Opening Vehicle Doors Universal Citation: RI Gen L § 31-21-14 (2012)

• 31-21-14 Opening vehicle doors. – No person shall open the door of a motor vehicle on the roadways, streets, or highways of this state, available to moving traffic, unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so, and can be done without interfering with the movement of other traffic, including pedestrians and bicycles on sidewalks, shoulders, or bicycle lanes. No person shall leave a door open on the side of a vehicle available to moving traffic, including pedestrians and bicycles on sidewalks, shoulders or bicycle lanes, for a period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers. Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be fined as provided in § 31-41.1-4.

Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney If You Are Hurt in a Bike Accident in Providence

Personal injury lawyer David Tapalian has helped multitudes of clients who have been injured in bike accidents, motorcycle crashes, and automobile collisions. If you, or a loved one, has been hurt in a bicycle accident by a negligent driver, you may have a valid personal injury claim and may be eligible for damages and compensation related to your injuries such as lost wages, medical expenses, and emotional distress. Bicyclists are more likely to be hurt or killed by a car than anything else on the road and motorists and cyclists must learn to coexist in cities like Providence for everyone’s safety. Contact the personal injury lawyers at Tapalian Law for a free review of your Rhode Island accident case or Massachusetts personal injury case. Call our bicycle accident injury lawyers at 401-552-5000, or email us today.

“Dooring”: Car Door Related Accidents in Providence

A “dooring” is a type of traffic collision where a cyclist rides into a car door or is struck by a car door that was opened without checking the side view mirror for cyclists. Dooring is unfortunately a very common occurrence among cyclists and one that personal injury lawyer David Tapalian sees frequently. It is not only scary, but can be deadly. A car driver doesn’t normally intend to open their car door to hurt a cyclist, but the results can be tragic nonetheless regardless of intention. The opened door may hit the cyclist causing them to crash head-on or if the bicyclist is able to see the door opening quickly, they may swerve into traffic to avoid the open door, thereby crashing into a moving vehicle or falling off their bike. Either way, the outcome can cause detrimental injuries to the bicyclist and to other cars, passengers, or pedestrians, on the road. What is the Dutch Reach?

Not many Rhode Islanders are familiar with the term “Dutch Reach”, but we should be. The practice can be lifesaving. A phrase referenced by Dr. Michael Charney, a retired physician and avid bicyclist, the Dutch Reach is a maneuver a driver can adopt prior to exiting their car to prevent a dooring. It is widely practiced in the Netherlands, a country that relies heavily on bicycles for transportation. Generally, a driver exits their vehicle by opening the car door with their left hand. Instead, by reaching across our body to use the opposite hand to reach the door handle, the Dutch Reach, this causes us to turn our bodies toward the side view mirror, out and back over your shoulder to spot an approaching bicyclist or pedestrian. Only after seeing a clear view, the driver or passenger should then open the car door slowly. This slight pause can save a life or prevent serious injuries caused by a dooring crash.

Who is Responsible for Car Dooring Accidents in Rhode Island?

Many states have laws related to car dooring, including Rhode Island. You may have a valid personal injury case if you, along with your bicycle accident attorney, can prove negligence on the part of the driver who opened the door even if it was not done with the intention to cause injury.

Rhode Island Bicycle Law Pertaining to Dooring Universal Citation: RI Gen L § 31-21-14 (2012)

• 31-21-14 Opening vehicle doors. – No person shall open the door of a motor vehicle on the roadways, streets, or highways of this state, available to moving traffic, unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so, and can be done without interfering with the movement of other traffic, including pedestrians and bicycles on sidewalks, shoulders, or bicycle lanes. No person shall leave a door open on the side of a vehicle available to moving traffic, including pedestrians and bicycles on sidewalks, shoulders or bicycle lanes, for a period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers. Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be fined as provided in § 31-41.1-4.

An experienced RI bicycle injury lawyer like David Tapalian can assist you with your bicycle injury case and help determine if the defendant (ie. person who opened the car door) was negligent and failed to use reasonable care which resulted in your injuries. In Rhode Island, you will need to prove that the defendant owed you, the cyclist, a duty of care to safely open the door. If they did owe you a duty of care but failed to carry out this duty therefore causing you injury that resulted in damages, you may have a valid personal injury claim.

Contact a Providence Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Bicycle Accident Injuries

Tapalian Law has helped numerous clients injured in bicycle accidents in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Bicycle accident attorney David Tapalian is experienced with the types of personal injury that can transpire from a bike accident and has been successful in winning compensation for numerous bike accident clients who have suffered both minor and traumatic injuries when their bike collided with a vehicle. If you or a family member were hurt in a Rhode Island bicycle accident, you may have a valid personal injury claim and may be eligible for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and other associated costs related to the injury. Call the bicycle accident injury lawyers at Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000, or email us today.

The Providence Journal recently asked bicycling advocates whether they think the biking systems in Rhode Island are safe for children and the responses were mixed. Much depends on where the child lives, goes to school, and whether the traffic in that area moves at slower speeds. Overgrown trees and bushes are a huge issue for bicyclists at crossings, making it difficult for bike riders and vehicle drivers alike to see each other. Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza cites that children can, in fact, safely ride in the city and that efforts are made to plan the city around people, not cars. He added that a city bicycling advisory council provides input into bike safety as new projects are developed throughout Providence. Bicycle crossings have been installed by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) at various busy intersections and “Sharrows”, symbols painted on the road with the symbol of a cyclist with arrows, were installed to remind drivers to share the road with bicyclists. After the death of the young boy in Bristol, RIDOT vowed to review every spot where dedicated bike paths cross roads. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) is responsible for maintenance issues along the bike path and Rhode Islanders are encouraged to contact them with maintenance concerns like shrubbery overgrowth.

Bicyclist Road Fatalities in Rhode Island

Over 800 people were killed in 2015 in the U.S. in crashes involving a bicycle and motor vehicle, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Deaths among bicyclists under the age of 20 have declined tremendously since 1975, perhaps due to a bigger push for children to wear bicycle helmets and safer areas to ride. Alarmingly, deaths among bicyclists aged 20 and older have nearly tripled since 1975 and are more prevalent among males, according to helmets.org. In Rhode Island, there were 11 deaths involving bicyclists from 2007-2016, according to the Providence Journal article.

2007:1

2008:1

2009:0

2010:2

2011:0

2012:2

2013:3

2014:0

2015:0

2016:2

Bicycle Safety Tips for Children & Adults

When it comes to kids riding a bike on their own, it is urged that a parent or other mature adult ride alongside the child until you feel comfortable they are able to make good judgments on their own. Children are not seasoned like most adult drivers and are less able to sense distracted or negligent drivers.

• Some general safety rules for riding a bike:
  • Ride with the traffic flow. Ride on the right side in the same direction as other vehicles.
  • Obey all traffic laws, just as if you are driving an automobile.
  • Yield to traffic when appropriate.
  • Stay alert at all times and it goes without saying do not operate a bicycle, or any vehicle, under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Look before turning and signal to notify other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
  • Watch for parked cars. Drivers may open their car door to exit and not realize a cyclist is riding by.

There are many good bicycling safety references for children online, including Safe Kids, NHTSA, and Helmets.org. Contact Tapalian Law if You Are Hurt in a Bicycle Accident in RI or MA

A person on a bicycle is no match for a heavy car or truck. A crash between a bicyclist and automobile frequently has a disastrous outcome. Severe personal injury can ensue including head trauma, broken bones, and fatalities. If your child, or another loved one, has been hit by a car while riding a bike, you need a skilled RI bike accident attorney on your side. An experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in bike accidents, like David Tapalian, can help you navigate the complicated legal process that follows a bike or car accident. When victims are injured, they often have no idea who to turn to for assistance. Attorney David Tapalian and his professional legal team knows how difficult the aftermath of a traumatic accident can be and will be by your side from start to finish. Tapalian Law will seek compensation on your behalf for your injuries and we do not get paid unless you are rewarded compensation. With offices in Providence, RI, and Seekonk, MA, we have successfully helped countless victims fight for fair treatment throughout the entirety of their legal case. Call us today at 401-552-5000, or email us, so we can begin the process of getting you on the road to recovery.

Inexperienced Drivers Often Cause Accidents Resulting in Personal Injury

While many view rental scooters as a welcome and environmentally friendly addition to cities, others have some concerns. Cities where rentals are currently offered have seen a spike in emergency injuries to riders, as well as pedestrians. The main cause for the injuries is inexperienced scooter operators. As personal injury lawyers, Tapalian Law knows with inexperience comes an increased risk of injury. Just as new teenage drivers have a higher accident rate than more experienced drivers, the same is likely to occur with scooter riders. The Cedars-Sinai Emergency Department in Los Angeles states they have seen a “definite increase” in patients seeking medical treatment for head, wrist, elbow, and hip injuries related to scooter usage. Older patients are especially vulnerable to these injuries. Although Bird recommends riders wear a proper safety helmet, many riders are not heeding the recommendation. Nor are they wearing additional protective gear such as knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards. And it’s not only riders that are getting hurt. Pedestrians are getting injured as they try to avoid getting hit by reckless scooter drivers navigating sidewalks. In addition, operators of the scooters are often wearing earbuds which can make them oblivious to traffic and pedestrians around them, adding to the potential for injury. As Rhode Island personal injury lawyers, Tapalian Law can see the concerns pedestrians and car and truck drivers in Providence have about inexperienced scooters joining the traffic flow and the potential for accidents and injuries.

Providence City Regulations for Scooters

The reason the scooters disappeared in Providence? Bird had not been authorized by the Department of Public Works and had not received permission to be in the city. Bird voluntarily removed their vehicles and the city is currently establishing regulations for the scooter company to comply with such as:

• Maximum number of scooters available for rent will be 300.
• Scooters will be distributed throughout 5 city zones.
• Rental companies, such as Bird, must accept all liability for loss related to the use of the scooters and provide the city with an insurance policy of at least $1 million.

Some cities have already banned the use of scooters, such as Cambridge, MA, while others are providing a trial period for the vehicles to see what effect their usage has on traffic and safety and what regulations need to be put into place.

If You Have Been Hurt in an Accident, Contact Tapalian Law

Despite the risks for personal injury, the popularity of these vehicles seems to be increasing. If you have been hurt in a scooter accident by an inexperienced or negligent driver, seek out the experience of a skilled Providence personal injury lawyer at Tapalian Law. As with all things new, there will be a learning curve while accepting a new mode of transportation. Currently, there is no system in place to regulate actual compliance with rules set forward by Bird, such as helmets being required for rentals and riders being required to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license to operate the scooters provided by Bird. In addition, riders are encouraged to utilize bike lanes when possible and not to operate the scooters on sidewalks. However, passersby in Providence did not see these rules being heeded all the time during the summer period Bird operated in the city. As regulations and compliance systems are still being ironed out to ensure safety, there will undoubtedly be further issues and concerns as well as accidents and injuries. Attorney David Tapalian has over 15 years of experienced helping victims of pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents, motorcycle accidents, and auto accidents. If you, or a loved one, has been hurt in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, seek out the expertise of the personal injury attorneys at Tapalian Law. Call us today at 401-552-5000, or email us.

“Just Drive New England”

In an effort to promote National Distracted Driving Awareness month this April, Rhode Island joined forces with nine other Northeastern states as well as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in the “Just Drive New England” initiative. This campaign will utilize enforcement and education to inform the public of the extreme dangers of distracted driving. Distracted driving can take place in many forms. It may be using a cell phone to talk, text, or send an email, applying makeup, adjusting a music station, chatting with passengers, amongst other distractions while operating a motor vehicle. Driving distracted can be as deadly as drunk driving, speeding, or aggressive driving, according to the Rhode Island State Police. The goal of the “Just Drive New England” campaign is to inform and educate drivers of these dangers and change their driving habits. The National Safety Council shares further information on their website about distracted driving and the “Just Drive” initiative.

Rhode Island Traffic Fatalities Up 63%

Rhode Island automotive fatalities are at their highest since 2008. In a recent Tapalian Law blog, we explored the top causes of fatal car accidents across the country which are speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving. In addition, pedestrian fatalities in Rhode Island have also increased. In 2017, 21 pedestrians were killed by vehicles in RI. In 2016, there were 14 pedestrian deaths in RI. As of June 1^st, Rhode Island law will prohibit the use of hand-held cell phones while driving to curb the number of vehicle accidents caused by distracted driving. Texting while driving is already banned in Rhode Island. It is important for drivers to realize that hands-free phones can also be distracting, and distracted driving can come in many forms including drinking, eating, and chatting with other passengers in the vehicle. Teenagers and new drivers are especially vulnerable to interference. As car accident lawyers, Tapalian Law urges all Rhode Islanders to be aware of the obvious driving distractions while operating an automobile, but also the not so obvious.

Have You Been Hurt by a Distracted Driver?

Seek out the experience of a skilled car accident injury lawyer if a distracted driver has hurt you. If you have been hurt in an auto accident caused by another driver texting, talking on a cell phone, using a GPS, or another type of disruption, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your personal injuries and related expenses. Whether the injuries caused to you were major or minor, you should not suffer alone. Contact distracted driving accident attorney David Tapalian today for a free consultation to determine your rights. Tapalian Law has years of experience helping Providence, East Providence, North Providence, and other Rhode Island and Massachusetts victims get the compensation they deserve. The sooner you contact Tapalian Law for advice, the better we can help you. Call us today at 401-552-5000 or contact us online.

Here are some steps to take if you spot a distracted driver on the road.

How Do Self-Driving Cars Work?

Previously we posted a Tapalian Law personal injury blog delving into how self-driving vehicles operate and some concerns surrounding them. We explained an autonomous vehicle works by utilizing a combination of sensors, cameras, radars, and lasers to detect and adjust to road conditions as well as other vehicles on the road. With technology improving daily, updates are constantly being made to the accuracy of these systems. Seemingly, an autonomous vehicle removes the issue of human error and distractions while driving. Alas, issues and concerns still remain like how the autos will react in various weather conditions and recognizing a pedestrian versus a face on a billboard or advertisement.

In the Uber accident however, it appears neither the vehicle itself nor the Uber safety driver in the car detected the pedestrian in the road prior to the crash. Video shots show the safety driver looking down and without their hands hovering about the steering wheel, as they are trained to be positioned in order to quickly divert a potential crash. Police state the Uber car never slowed down before hitting the 49-year old Arizona woman pushing a bicycle across the road.

What Has Changed Since the Pedestrian Accident?

Eight days after the fatal pedestrian crash, Arizona state officials ordered Uber to suspend its autonomous vehicle testing program in the state. Officials claim that Uber failed to prioritize public safety throughout the testing process, as was expected of them. After the incident, Uber ceased testing of its self-driving vehicles at its own will in Arizona, San Francisco, Pittsburgh, and Toronto. Uber also did not renew its permit to test self-driving cars in the state of California.

More Accidents Inevitable?

Advocates of self-driving cars say they need to be kept on the road in order to continue testing and perfecting the vehicles. The sooner all the malfunctions and glitches are worked out, the sooner these self-driving cars can begin to reduce the amount of traffic related deaths, accidents, and personal injury caused by car crashes. Challengers say more accidents and deaths from autonomous vehicles are inevitable and feel manufacturers need to use extra caution before allowing the cars on public roads. Others blame Uber, saying that Uber’s autonomous vehicles are not operating as well, or as safely, as its competitors like Waymo and Cruise.

Distracted Driving Still a Problem with Self-Driving Vehicles

Ultimately, it would seem driverless cars are exactly that, without a driver. But during testing modes manufacturers tend to have either one or two safety drivers in the vehicle depending on the circumstances and location. The purpose of the safety driver is to prevent a potential accident that is missed by the self-driving car. Since we cannot rely completely on driverless cars as there are still many issues to be worked out, a safety driver is necessary at this time. Ironically, it seems the safety driver was distracted in this accident, which doesn’t make the autonomous vehicles any safer than our fully driver-operated vehicles where we are easily prone to distractions and human error, both of which cause a huge amount of traffic related deaths and personal injury. Uber has some work to do and self-driving car manufactures have much to prove before these vehicles can be fully trusted on their own.

Have You Been Hurt in a Car Accident in RI or MA?

As an injury lawyer assisting car accident victims all over Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Attorney David Tapalian knows first-hand the serious implications a collision can cause. As personal injury lawyers, Tapalian Law sees the devastation of serious vehicle accidents, and we hope that eventually these autonomous vehicles find a way to eliminate the bulk of car crashes, collisions and related injuries and deaths. To be able to reduce the high number of preventable deaths and injuries due to car crashes in Rhode Island and beyond would be monumental. We look forward to seeing what the future holds. If you have been the victim of a car crash or other type of personal injury caused by another, don’t hesitate to contact Tapalian Law for a free consultation. Contact Attorney Tapalian at 401-552-5000.

Automatic Emergency Braking Systems (AEB)

How They Work: Automatic Emergency Braking Systems, also called AEB, use a combination of sensors to detect an impending forward crash with another vehicle in time to avoid, or reduce, the effects of the crash. Once an impending crash is sensed, the first step in the system is to alert the driver, (possibly by sound, display on the dashboard, or both), to take corrective action. If the driver does not take action to avoid the crash, the AEB system may take over and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or diminish the impact of the crash.

One-third of all police reported crashes in 2012 involved a rear end collision with another vehicle. Vehicles equipped with an AEB system could potentially prevent and lessen the severity of these common rear-end crashes, and corresponding injury, that we see so often as RI personal injury attorneys. NHTSA research shows that a number of these currently available systems are prove to be capable of avoiding or diminishing the severity of rear-end crashes in particular situations.

Pedestrian Automatic Braking System (PAEB)

How They Work: Similar to AEB systems, the Pedestrian Automatic Braking System (PAEB), uses a combination of sensors and cameras to detect a pedestrian in danger of being hit by a forward moving vehicle. The system will first alert the driver to the pedestrian and if appropriate action isn’t taken by the vehicle operator, the PAEB system will automatically apply the brakes in hopes of avoiding hitting the pedestrian. The PAEB system is also known as frontal pedestrian impact mitigation braking.

Pedestrian accidents often occur when a pedestrian is crossing the street in front of a vehicle. Pedestrian crashes are most frequent when a vehicle is heading straight and a pedestrian is crossing the road; turning right or left and a pedestrian is crossing the road; or heading straight and a pedestrian is walking alongside or against traffic. The NHTSA recognizes this technology as a potentially life-saving feature that may be added to the list of recommended technologies down the road.

Backup Cameras (Rearview Video Systems)

How They Work: Backup cameras provide an image of the area behind the vehicle to the driver to act as a so-called “second set of eyes” to view what is behind the vehicle. This technology is extremely helpful in preventing backover accidents whose victims are most commonly children and senior citizens. When the vehicle operator shifts into reverse, an image of behind the vehicle is displayed in the dashboard or rearview mirror, depending on the type of car, SUV, or truck.

Tapalian Law posted a blog about Preventing Backover Accidents, which delves further into the benefits of these camera systems. In the blog, we also provide additional tips for preventing backover incidents. The most common victims of these heart-breaking tragedies are children under age 5 and in the majority of these cases, it is a family member operating the vehicle that backs over the child resulting in death or serious injury. In May 2018, the NHTSA will require this life-saving technology on all new vehicles.

Contact Tapalian Law If You Have Been Injured in a Providence Auto Accident

Its imperative to stress that these automobile technologies, although potentially a huge preventative measure against car accident fatalities and personal injury, are not a substitute for safe driving practices. They are an additional safety tool and not to be completely relied upon as the sole safety measure by the driver. If you have been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, contact Attorney David Tapalian and the experienced Providence personal injury attorneys at Tapalian Law. For a free consultation on your car accident or personal injury case, contact us today at 401-552-5000 or complete our online form and we will contact you to discuss the details of your personal injury case.

Reasons for Increase in RI Traffic Fatalities

Just as there are a multitude of reasons for car crashes, there are many causes for fatal car accidents and not one cause can be pinpointed. Although we do know that drunk driving, speeding, and distracted driving top the list of causes all over the country. Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, the commanding officer of the Rhode Island State Police, will not cite a particular reason for the increased number of RI traffic deaths but emphasizes the importance of drivers being vigilant about driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, wearing seat belts, and avoiding distractions like cell phones. As many Rhode Islanders know, cell phone usage while driving with be outlawed as of June 2018 in Rhode Island. Though we can not predict if this will realize a decrease in traffic fatalities, it may bring extra awareness to the serious issue of distracted driving.

Auto Related Deaths Across the Country

Nationally, 2017 saw an increase in traffic fatalities all over the country. The NHTSA released data in October 2017 showing that almost 37,500 people lost their lives to auto accidents in 2016, which was an increase of 5.6 percent from 2015. Speeding related deaths increased by 4% and deaths due to failure to wear a seat belt were up 4.6%. Pedestrian deaths saw their biggest jump since 1990, increasing 9%. Deaths caused by alcohol impairment also jumped in 2016. In response to this increase, Rhode Island State Police launched a moving campaign to address drunk driving prior to the beginning of 2017. The campaign, “#BeyondtheCrash”, showed RI state troopers discussing the trauma inflicted by driving under the influence. Unfortunately, as we know all too well at Tapalian Law, drivers continue to drive under the influence as well as speed and operate their vehicles with a multitude of distractions resulting in unfortunate and completely preventable, personal injury and death to other drivers across Rhode Island.

Have You Been Hurt in a RI Traffic Accident?

If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a car accident in Providence or elsewhere in Rhode Island due to the negligent actions of another vehicle operator, seek out the experience of a skilled Providence car accident attorney. Tapalian Law will review the details of your auto accident case and give you their honest advice about seeking restitution for your injuries. We only get paid if you get rewarded compensation for your legal case. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident due to the negligence of another driver, such as a drunk driver, a speeding driver, or a distracted driver, you, or an eligible family member may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at fault driver to seek compensation on behalf of your loved one. Although nothing can bring back a loved one or lessen the pain of losing a family member, being rewarded compensation for your loss can assist in paying funeral expenses and other costs associated with your loss. To see if you are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit, consult a well-practiced injury attorney at Tapalian Law in Providence. We have helped countless clients recover compensation for auto-related injuries and fatalities in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Do not wait to consult us for advice on your personal injury or wrongful death case. Call Attorney David Tapalian today at 401-552-5000. You can also reach us with our online contact form.

The Initial Personal Injury Consultation

As a Providence personal injury firm, Tapalian Law offers a free, no-obligations consultation to those who have been hurt in a Rhode Island or Massachusetts accident, whether it be an auto accident, motorcycle crash, dog bite, or slip and fall. We have also helped clients with bicycle injuries, pedestrian accidents, workers compensation as well as other practice areas. When you meet with us there is no charge. You pay no fees unless we are successful at getting you a fair and just settlement and you receive compensation. The initial consultation process begins when you contact us by phone or with the contact form on our website. You will speak directly, and confidentially, with Attorney David Tapalian who will ask you some basic questions about your accident and injuries. He will ask where and how the accident took place, the date of the accident, what type of injuries you incurred, and what medical treatment you have received thus far. You will then set-up an in-person consultation, again at no charge, with Attorney Tapalian at our Providence or Seekonk office, or at another convenient location for you. If you are too hurt to come to us, we will come to you. We will delve into further details of your claim, such as whether a police report was filed, if any driver citations were issued, where you received medical attention, and if any witnesses saw the incident. Based on this information, if Attorney Tapalian feels you have a solid personal injury claim and he feels he can help you seek compensation for your injuries, he will advise you of how to move forward. If you decide to hire Tapalian Law for your personal injury needs, you will complete some paperwork and we will begin on your injury case. However, if Attorney Tapalian believes there is not enough strong evidence with which to conduct a personal injury claim, he will give you his honest opinion.

What Happens After I Hire Tapalian Law for my Personal Injury Claim?

Once you choose to work with us on your injury case, we will begin investigating your claim right away. We will obtain copies of any police reports from the city where the accident took place and review the report as well as any witness and police officer statements. If your accident took place in a busy city like Providence, we may be able to locate surveillance cameras from area businesses or traffic cameras with footage of the incident to show as proof. In order to seek money for your damages, we must prove that another driver, or person, is at fault for your injuries and that you incurred real substantial harm that you would not have incurred if they had not caused the accident.

Seeking Medical Treatment Throughout Your Personal Injury Claim

When you are hurt in an accident, it is important to get the necessary medical attention and follow-up on any recommended care plans provided by your doctor or caregiver. This may include regular physician’s visits, chiropractic care, physical therapy, or another specialty depending on your type of injury. It is important that patients are following the recommended treatment plan as this ensures a stronger personal injury claim. Any gaps in treatment can possibly weaken your injury case with the insurance company. Once your treatment has been completed, your personal injury attorney will tally up the damages and submit a demand letter to the insurance company requesting an amount of compensation for your damages. The insurance company may possibly agree with the attorney’s initial demand, however in the wide majority of cases negotiations will begin between the insurance company and your injury lawyer. This is where the importance of a strong attorney who won’t back down comes into play. During these negotiations you need a lawyer like David Tapalian who will fight for your rights and for what is fair and just monetary compensation on your behalf.

Getting Compensation for Your Accident Injuries

Not all accidents are the same, and not all personal injury cases follow the same path. Every client is different and each case is different. Often, after back and forth negotiations the insurance company and your lawyer will eventually agree on a fair and appropriate settlement amount. Tapalian Law will communicate with you throughout the entire process providing you status updates. In the chance that they do not come to an agreement and the adjuster does not increase your offer, you will want an attorney like David Tapalian on your side who will go to trial if necessary. If you have been hurt in a Rhode Island or Massachusetts accident, seek out the tenacious attorneys at Tapalian Law who will fight for your rights. Call us today to discuss your case for free at 401-552-5000, or use our online contact form.